System and mehtod for providing information about assets during a live auction

ABSTRACT

A method for providing information about an auction for a plurality of assets is provided. A plurality of assets that is made to be available during an auction is identified. Each of the plurality of assets includes an auction state. During the auction, a matrix interface is displayed. The matrix interface includes a plurality of entries, where each entry identifies a corresponding asset and the auction state of that asset. The auction state of one or more assets is dynamically updated during the auction.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of priority to Provisional U.S. PatentApplication No. 61/800,439, filed Mar. 15, 2013, entitled SYSTEM ANDMETHOD FOR PROVIDING INFORMATION ABOUT ASSETS DURING A LIVE AUCTION; theaforementioned application is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Examples described herein pertain generally to a system and method forproviding updated information about assets for a live auction.

BACKGROUND

A variety of auction forums exist that enable users to transact forvarious kinds of items, such as collectibles, electronics, and othergoods or services.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example system for providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example method for providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction.

FIG. 3 illustrates another example method providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example method for providing information of assetsfor transaction to a user based on a profile of the user.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example report that includes information about aplurality of assets and their corresponding statuses.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example matrix interface that identifies aplurality of assets and their corresponding auction states.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system upon whichexamples described herein may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples described herein provide a system and computer-implementedmethod for providing a variety of information about assets for anauction to interested users or participants. Reports can be generatedand communicated to users before the auction is held in order to notifyusers of the statuses of the assets up to the time of the auction. Inaddition, other presentations can be provided to assist the users duringthe duration of an auction.

According to examples, a system, such as an auction management system,can communicate with one or more asset listing sources to generate alist that identifies a plurality of assets and a status of each asset inadvance of a scheduled auction. The scheduled auction can be a liveauction having a start time on a start date. The system can periodicallycommunicate with one or more asset listing sources, at first timeintervals, to determine a change in the status of one or more assets.Based on the change in one or more statuses, the list that identifiesthe plurality of assets can be updated accordingly. A report can becommunicated to one or more users based on the updated list.

Depending on implementation, the system can periodically communicatewith the asset listing source(s), at first time intervals, until aparticular date and/or time (e.g., one day before the start date of theauction, or on the start date of the auction). On that particular dateand/or time, the system can communicate with the asset listingsource(s), at second time intervals. The second time intervals can besmaller than the first time intervals so that as the auction start timeand date approaches, users can receive more up to date information aboutthe assets.

In other examples, a system can identify a plurality of assets that ismade to be available during an auction. Each of the plurality of assetscan include an auction state. During the auction, a matrix interface canbe displayed. For example, a display device that is provided at thelocation of a live auction can display the matrix interface. The matrixinterface can include a plurality of entries, where each entryidentifies a corresponding asset and the auction state of that asset.Also during the auction, the auction state of one or more assets can bedynamically updated. The updated auction state(s) can be shown in thematrix interface so that a user can quickly understand the auctionstates of the assets.

In one example, each of the plurality of assets can be associated withan asset identifier, and each asset identifier can be associated with areference number. The matrix interface can be displayed by providing,for each of the entries, the reference number of the correspondingasset. In addition, each entry can have a color that is associated withthe auction state of the asset. In this manner, a user that is viewingthe matrix interface can look for the entry with the reference number ofthe asset that the user is interested in, and determine whether theasset is available for bidding by looking at the color of the entry.

Still further, in some examples, a system can provide a report to a useror subscriber that includes information about assets that are to beavailable during an auction. The report can include a plurality ofentries that each corresponds to an asset. Each entry can also include alink for the corresponding asset. When the user selects the linked,additional information for that asset can be provided to and viewed bythe user. In response to receiving user selection of one or more linkson the report, one or more assets corresponding to the one or moreselected links are determined, and a profile of the user can be updatedwith information associated with the determined one or more assets. Thesystem can provide additional listings about one or more other assetsavailable for transaction to the user based on the profile of the user.

As used herein, an “asset” can refer to a tangible item or a product.Examples of an asset can include any item for sale, a vehicle, anantique, real estate property, etc. Types of real estate property caninclude a house, a townhouse, a condo, an apartment, a businessproperty, land, etc. Also as used herein, a “user” can refer to a bidder(or potential bidder), or buyer of an asset at an auction.

One or more examples described herein provide that methods, techniques,and actions performed by a computing device are performedprogrammatically, or as a computer-implemented method. Programmatically,as used herein, means through the use of code or computer-executableinstructions. These instructions can be stored in one or more memoryresources of the computing device. A programmatically performed step mayor may not be automatic.

One or more examples described herein can be implemented usingprogrammatic modules, engines, or components. A programmatic module,engine, or component can include a program, a sub-routine, a portion ofa program, or a software component or a hardware component capable ofperforming one or more stated tasks or functions. As used herein, amodule or component can exist on a hardware component independently ofother modules or components. Alternatively, a module or component can bea shared element or process of other modules, programs or machines.

Some examples described herein can generally require the use ofcomputing devices, including processing and memory resources. Forexample, one or more examples described herein may be implemented, inwhole or in part, on computing devices such as servers, desktopcomputers, cellular or smartphones, personal digital assistants (e.g.,PDAs), laptop computers, printers, digital picture frames, networkequipment (e.g., routers) and tablet devices. Memory, processing, andnetwork resources may all be used in connection with the establishment,use, or performance of any example described herein (including with theperformance of any method or with the implementation of any system).

Furthermore, one or more examples described herein may be implementedthrough the use of instructions that are executable by one or moreprocessors. These instructions may be carried on a computer-readablemedium. Machines shown or described with figures below provide examplesof processing resources and computer-readable mediums on whichinstructions for implementing examples of the invention can be carriedand/or executed. In particular, the numerous machines shown withexamples of the invention include processor(s) and various forms ofmemory for holding data and instructions. Examples of computer-readablemediums include permanent memory storage devices, such as hard drives onpersonal computers or servers. Other examples of computer storagemediums include portable storage units, such as CD or DVD units, flashmemory (such as carried on smartphones, multifunctional devices ortablets), and magnetic memory. Computers, terminals, network enableddevices (e.g., mobile devices, such as cell phones) are all examples ofmachines and devices that utilize processors, memory, and instructionsstored on computer-readable mediums. Additionally, examples may beimplemented in the form of computer-programs, or a computer usablecarrier medium capable of carrying such a program.

System Description

FIG. 1 illustrates an example system for providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction. A system 100 such as describedby an example of FIG. 1 can be implemented in a variety of computingenvironments. For example, system 100 can be implemented as part of anonline market system or environment, such as an online auction, or canbe implemented as a network service that augments or facilitates anonline market place. Accordingly, system 100 can be implemented as anetwork service, through a combination of servers and/or other networkenabled computing devices. In variations, system 100 can be implementedon other computing platforms, including stand-alone systems. Thus, insome variations, system 100 can operate on a product or service that ismaintained on a single computing device or storage device.

Depending on implementation, the components of system 100 can combine toprovide status information of assets that are to be available during anauction. In particular, in some examples, one or more assets may beremoved or postponed from being auctioned. System 100 can communicatewith asset listing sources to maintain updated status information of theasset and provide the updated status information to users. According toan example, system 100 can include a listing interface 110, anaggregator 120, a report generate 130, a matrix display 140, and adistribution 150. System 100 can also include one or more data stores,such as an auction information data store 170, an asset information datastore 172, and a subscriber information data store 174. In someimplementations, data can be shared across the data stores 170, 172,174, or a single data store can be used to store information found inthe data stores 170, 172, 174.

System 100 can include a listing interface 110 to communicate with oneor more asset listing sources 190 over one or more networks. The listinginterface 110 can receive or retrieve information from the asset listingsources 190. In one example, the listing interface 110 can periodicallypoll, pull data, and/or send requests to receive information from one ormore asset listing sources 190. An asset listing 190 can be a record ofassets that are available for an auction. In some cases, an assetlisting can be maintained by a trustee, such as an agent or arepresentative hired by a bank or mortgage holder of an asset. Dependingon examples, such an asset can be a distressed asset or an asset havinga debt (e.g., on a loan) that is associated with that asset and that isunder a foreclosure order.

Depending on government regulations, when a bank or mortgage holderinitiates a foreclosure process on the asset, the trustee can (or may beobligated to) publish information about the asset. The trustee canmaintain an asset listing that includes a plurality of assets andparticular information about the assets. During the foreclosure process,the state or status of the asset can change depending on a variouscircumstances. The trustee can update the asset listing with newlychanged information about one or more assets. For example, before apublic sale or auction can be held for the asset, the property owner canstop the foreclosure by reinstating or paying off the loan. The trusteemay also find out information during due diligence and/or during theprocess to clear the asset for sale. As such, one or more of the assetsidentified in the asset listing sources can be in flux or unstable,e.g., at the time of auction, the asset in flux may not necessarily beavailable for sale or auction. For example, at a scheduled auction, onehundred assets can be listed that is made to be available for thatauction. As the scheduled auction date and time nears, some of theassets may not be available for auction, and by the auction date, onlyseventy assets may be available.

System 100 can use the listing interface 110 to receive or retrieveinformation 110 about assets that are made to be available during ascheduled auction (e.g., distressed assets). Although distressed assetscan include any type of item, product, vehicle, real property, etc.,having a loan associated with it, for illustrative purposes, examplesare provided with respect to real property. Information 111 about theassets, including status information of the assets 123, can be providedto the aggregator 120. According to examples, the status of an assetrepresents whether the asset will be available for the scheduledauction, and can correspond to at least one of (i) cleared for auction,(ii) pending, (iii) postponed, (iv) canceled, and/or (v) sale completed.The aggregator 120 can generate a list of a plurality of assets and thestatus of each asset in advance of a scheduled auction using the assetinformation 111 provided by the one or more asset listings 190. The listof the plurality of assets can be stored in, for example, the assetinformation data store 172.

In addition, the aggregator 120 can receive information about one ormore scheduled auctions from the one or more asset listing sources 190(e.g., received as part of the asset information 111) or from othersources. Information about the scheduled auction(s) can be stored in theauction information data store 170. For example, information about ascheduled auction can include a date, a starting time, an end time, whatassets or types of assets are to be sold/auctioned, an address, and/orthe party conducting the auction. The auction information in the datastore 170 can be associated with the asset list in data store 172, sothat the aggregator 120 can identify which asset listing sources 190 toupdate information about particular assets for a particular scheduledauction.

In some examples, the aggregator 120 can also control when system 100communicates with one or more asset listings sources 190. For example,based on information found in the list of assets and/or informationabout the scheduled auction(s), the aggregator 120 can determine howoften to communicate with the one or more asset listings sources 190.For a given scheduled auction, the aggregator 120 can provide timeinformation 121 to control the intervals of time in which the listinginterface 110 can periodically communicate with the asset listingsource(s) 190. For example, system 100 can periodically communicate withthe asset listing source(s) 190 at first time intervals (e.g., everytwenty four hours, or every two days) if a scheduled auction is multipleweeks or months away from the current date and time. As the scheduledauction start time and date approaches, the aggregator 120 can adjustthe time information 121 so that system 100 can periodically communicatewith the asset listing source(s) 190 more frequently. For example, ifthe schedule auction is within five days from the current date and time,the listing interface 110 can communicate with the asset listingsource(s) 190 at second time intervals (e.g., every twelve hours). Threeor more different time intervals can be used so that as a scheduledauction start time and date approaches, the more frequently system 100periodically communicates with one or more asset listing sources 190.

In another example, the listing interface 110 can periodicallycommunicate with the asset listing source(s), at first time intervals(e.g., every twenty four hours), until the start date of a scheduledauction. On the start date of the scheduled auction, the listinginterface 110 can periodically communicate with the asset listingsource(s), at second time intervals (e.g., every fifteen minutes), untilthe start time of the auction or until another time during the durationof the auction. By communicating with the asset listing sources 190, theaggregator 120 can update information in the asset list stored in theasset information data store 172.

Depending on implementation, the asset list that is stored in the assetinformation data store 172 can include a plurality of entries, whereeach entry corresponds to an asset that is made to be available during ascheduled auction. The asset list can include a variety of informationabout the assets. For example, each entry (or some of the entries) caninclude: (i) an identifier or search code, (ii) trustee identifier orforeclosure listing number (FCL), (iii) an assessor's parcel number(APN), (iv) address of the asset (e.g., number, street, city, county,state, zip code), (v) a status, (vi) auction information (e.g., date,time, location), (vii) asset information (e.g., number of bedrooms,number of bathrooms, lot size, square footage, year built, garage size),and/or (viii) pricing information (e.g., total estimated debt, openingbid for the auction, minimum amount required). When the aggregator 120receives asset information 111, including status information 123 ofassets, the aggregator 120 can access the asset information data store172 to determine whether there is a change in information (e.g., changein any of the information, or status) of one or more assets in the assetlist. If a change exists, the aggregator 120 can update 127 the entry inthe asset list. In this manner, as a scheduled auction date and timeapproaches, the aggregator 120 can perform updates, if necessary, morefrequently by periodically communicating with the asset listingsource(s).

The aggregator 120 can also communicate with the report generate 130 inorder to cause or schedule the report generate 130 to generate one ormore reports using information stored in the asset information datastore 172. In some examples, the report generate 130 can, in connectionwith the aggregator 120, generate one or more reports based on a setschedule or based on triggering events. The aggregator 120 can providereport timing information 125, in one example, that causes the reportgenerate 130 to retrieve the appropriate information from the assetinformation data store 172 and generate one or more reports using theinformation.

A report 131 can correspond to a document, a presentation, aspreadsheet, etc., that includes information about one or more assetsmade available for auction (such as one or more information described inthe asset list). The report 131 can include a portion of the assetsidentified in the asset list stored in the asset information database172 and their respective information. For example, a report 131 can bespecific to assets that are located in a given geographic region, e.g.,a particular city (or cities), a county (or counties), a state, etc.,and/or specific to assets that are registered or made to be availablefor a particular scheduled auction. The report 131 can also includeinformation about the statutes of the assets provided on the report(e.g., whether the asset has been cleared for sale, is pendingclearance, is postponed, is canceled, etc.). A user or subscriber whoreceives or views the report 131, can have a better understanding, inadvance of the scheduled auction, of the states of the assets, and cancontinue to receive updated reports 131 until the scheduled auctiontime.

Depending on examples, the report generate 130 can generate a report 131that is to be provided to users or subscribers on a set schedule (e.g.,every day, every two days, etc.) that can be configured by anadministrator, for example, of system 100. The time intervals for thefrequency of generating and providing the report 131 can also change(e.g., automatically) depending on the auction start date and time(e.g., provide reports more frequently, as the auction date approachescloser). In another example, the report generate 130 can generate areport 131 based on received requests from users or subscribers. Stillfurther, in other examples, the aggregator 120 can also trigger (viareport timing information 125) the report generate 130 to generate areport (i) in response to the aggregator 120 communicating with theasset listing source(s) (e.g., periodically), and/or (ii) when theaggregator 120 determines that one or more entries in the asset list hasbeen updated or a predetermined number of entries has been updated.

The report generate 130 can generate one or more reports by selectingparticular assets for that report. Each report 131 can also include areport identifier. For example, for a report 131 that is specific toassets that are located in a given geographic region, such as aparticular county, the report generate 130 can select one or more assetsfrom the asset list stored in the asset information data store 172 thathave a location in that given geographic region. The selected assets canbe included in the report 131. Similarly, for a report 131 that isspecific to a particular scheduled auction, the report generate 130 canselect one or more assets from the asset list that have been identifiedas an asset to be auctioned at that scheduled auction. In some examples,in response to a particular report request, the report generate 130 cangenerate a report 131 that is specific to a particular user and includesassets particularly requested by that user via the report request. Oneor more reports 131 can be communicated to users or subscribers (e.g.,so that the one or more reports 131 can be accessed, interacted with,and/or viewable on one or more computing devices 180 associated withusers or subscribers).

In one example, the report generate 130 can provide the generated one ormore reports 131 to the distribution 150. According to some examples,the distribution 150 can provide the reports 131 to the appropriateusers in response to receiving the report 131 from the report generate130 (e.g., receiving the report can act as a trigger to automaticallyprovide the report to one or more users). The distribution 150 canprovide the one or more reports 131 to appropriate users or subscribersusing a variety of different methods.

For example, each user can operate a user computing device 180, such asa personal computer, laptop, tablet device, smart phone, etc., tointeract with an interface, such as an interface implemented as part ofa web page that can be displayed on display devices of the user devices180. A user can also operate a computing device 180 to receivecommunications (e-mails, text message, etc.) via distribution 150. Forexample, the distribution 150 can cause the report(s) 131 to bedisplayed with a web page, or provide the report(s) 131 as part of orincluded in an e-mail message. The distribution 150 can also format thereport(s) accordingly, based on the manner in which the report isprovided. In other variations, the distribution 150 can provide thereport(s) 131 as part of an application page or presentation that can bedisplayed on user devices 180. Still further, in another example,distribution 150 can communicate with one or more printing services tocause physical paper reports to be printed and mailed to users.

The distribution 150 can determine which users are to receive whichreports 131 and/or when to receive the reports 131. Depending onimplementation, the distribution 150 can receive subscriber information(e.g., user ID, location, telephone number, email address, address, whento provide the report the user, etc.) when the report 131 is provided bythe report generate 130. In other examples, the distribution 150 canalso communicate with the subscriber information data store 174, whichstores profiles of users or subscribers to system 100 and/or the onlinemarket system. For a particular report 131, the distribution 150 can useinformation stored in the subscriber information data store 174 (e.g.,user ID, location, telephone number, email address, address, when toprovide the report the user, etc.) to select one or more users who areto receive that report 131 (e.g., based on the location of the user, ifit is within a predetermined distance of the auction location and/or agiven geographic region of assets), determine how the report is to beprovided to the selected one or more users, and/or determine when thereport is to be provided.

In this manner, a user who is interested in assets for auction in aparticular geographic region, can subscribe to a report for thatparticular geographic region, and not receive reports for other regions.Because some auctions, such as an auction for foreclosure assets,require a bidder or user to be present at the auction (e.g., a liveauction), it is beneficial to provide reports 131 that are specific toassets that a user can physically visit and/or are specific to ascheduled auction that the user can participate in.

Matrix Interface

In some examples, system 100 can also include a matrix display 140 thatcan, in connection with the aggregator 120, display a matrix interface(or other interfaces of different shape, e.g., circular, triangular,etc.) during the duration of an auction (e.g., a live auction). For sometypes of auctions, such as an auction for foreclosure assets, assetsthat are made to be available during the auction can still be in fluxeven while the auction is on-going. For example, according toforeclosure rules or regulations, a transaction for a distressed assetmay not be completed until it is “cried out” at the auction. Before suchevent, the property owner of an asset can take steps so that the assetis not cleared for sale at the auction. System 100 can provide, duringthe auction, a matrix interface that includes real-time or close toreal-time information about statutes or auction states of the asset. Inthis manner, changes to the auction state of an asset can be reflectedin the matrix interface that is displayed at the live auction, forexample, or displayed on user devices 180.

In one example, for a particular scheduled auction, the matrix display140 can communicate with the aggregator 120 to identify a plurality ofassets that is made to be available during the scheduled auction. Eachof the assets can include an auction state, such as, (i) cleared forauction, (ii) pending, (iii) auctioned, (iv) postponed, or (v) canceled.The aggregator 120 can access the asset information data store 172 toprovide relevant information 141 for the matrix interface. In someexamples, the asset list stored in the asset information data store 172can include entries that each have an asset identifier for that asset.The aggregator 120 can associate each of the asset identifiers for theassets of the scheduled auction with a reference number (e.g., areference number from 1 to 200, or to how many total assets areavailable for that scheduled auction). The aggregator 120 can maintain amapping or reference table of reference numbers and associated assetidentifiers for a scheduled auction. The aggregator 120 can provide, tothe matrix display, matrix information 141, which can include (i) thereference numbers for the identified assets for that scheduled auction,and (ii) the auction states for each of the identified assets. Thisinformation can be provided to the matrix display 140 just before thescheduled auction begins and/or during the course of the auction.

Using the matrix information 141, the matrix display 140 can generateand display, before the auction begins and/or during the course of theauction, a matrix interface that has a plurality of cells or entries.Each of the cells or entries can identify a corresponding asset and theauction state of that asset. During the course of the auction, thematrix information 141 can dynamically update the auction state of oneor more assets identified by the entries in the matrix interface. Theauction state can be updated based on detected changes to the auctionstates of an asset. For example, during the course of the auction,system 100 can continue to periodically communicate with the assetlisting source(s) 190 to determine information about assets that aremade to be available during that auction (e.g., communicate with theasset listing source(s) every minute or every two minutes). When theauction state changes for a respective asset, the aggregator 120 (suchas described above) can update the asset list stored in the assetinformation data store 172, and provide updated auction stateinformation for that asset to the matrix display 140 (e.g., using thereference number of the asset). The matrix display 140 can dynamicallyupdate the respective entries of the matrix interface to reflect themost recent auction state for the corresponding assets.

In one example, a display device, such as a television or a project, canbe provided at a venue of a live auction. The live auction can bescheduled to take place at a verified venue, such as a courthouse, aballroom at a hotel, a convention center, etc. The matrix interface canbe displayed on the display device so that bidders at the auction canview up-to-date information about assets that are made to be availableduring that specified auction. According to examples, auction states forparticular entries (e.g., each entry corresponding to or identifying aparticular asset) can be visually distinguished on the matrix interfaceusing visual cues, such as different colors, textures, shading, etc. Thematrix display 140 can maintain a matrix mapping table in which eachauction state can correspond to a particular color, shading, or othervisual cue (e.g., including graphics, images, icons, etc.). For example,the auction state “cleared for auction” can correspond to the colorgreen, while the auction state “canceled” can correspond to the colorred. As such, dynamic updates to an auction state for an asset canresult in the color of the matrix interface entry/cell for that asset tobe changed.

According to other implementations, the matrix display 140 can alsoenable the matrix interface to be displayed on the web, e.g., as part ofa web page related to the scheduled auction or system 100. In someexamples, the matrix display 140 can provide the matrix interface (andupdates to the matrix interface) to the distribution 150 so that thematrix interface can be provided to one or more subscribers or users,via their respective computing devices 180. In such cases, the matrixdisplay 140 can format the matrix interface based on the manner in whichthe matrix interface is to be displayed (or provided to devices fordisplay).

Active Links

System 100 can also include a link profiler 160. As described above, auser can receive one or more reports 131 that is specifically subscribedto by the user, or one or more reports 131 of assets and/or auctions ina nearby geographic location of the user. The one or more reports 131can include entries that each corresponds to an asset that is to be madeavailable during a scheduled auction. Each entry can also include a linkfor that corresponding asset, such that when a user views the report 131and selects a link (e.g., using one or more user devices 180),additional information about that asset can be displayed to the user.The link profiler 160 can receive indication of the user's selection ofone or more links and can monitor or track what types of assets (and/ortheir characteristics) the user likes or is interested in. In oneexample, the link profile can operate on the basis that a user isinterested in an asset because the user selected a link to viewadditional details about that asset.

When the user provides a user input 181, such as selecting one or morelinks of assets from the report 131, the user's selection(s) 161 areprovided to the link profiler 160. In one example, the link profiler 160can determine the identity or a user identifier (ID) of the user whoprovided the user selection(s) 161 (e.g., from the distribution 150,from information included in the user selection(s) 161, from informationabout which users received the report 131, by communicating with thereport generate 130, etc.). Based on the user selection(s) 161, the linkprofiler 160 can determine one or more assets that correspond to the oneor more selected links. Depending on implementation, the link profiler160 can determine or identify the one or more assets the user wasinterested in from the selected link(s) itself (e.g., the link itselfcan be an active link that includes information about the asset, such asthe associated identifier of the asset) and/or by looking up the one ormore assets using the selected link(s) in the asset information datastore 172.

The link profiler 160 can also determine one or more characteristics ofthe determined asset(s) using information stored in the assetinformation data store 172. For example, for real estate propertyassets, the characteristics can include, but are not limited to, (i) anumber of bedrooms, (ii) a number of bathrooms, (iii) size (lot size orsquare footage), (iv) price (estimated remaining loan amount, minimumbid), (v) location, (vi) type (e.g., single family home, condo,townhouse), or (vii) age. Other characteristics can include style,single floor or multiple floor, backyard, or specifics about theinterior of the house (e.g., hardwood floors, French doors, etc.). Asanother example, for vehicle assets, the characteristics can includetypes of vehicles, brand, capacity, number of seats, color, year, etc.The link profiler 160 can update the profile corresponding to a user ID163 of the user or subscriber with information associated with thedetermined one or more assets (such as with one or morecharacteristics). In this manner, the user's profile can be updated toinclude information that can be indicative of assets that the user isinterested in.

By maintaining the user's profile in a subscriber information data store174, system 100 and/or an online market system can access the user'sprofile in order to tailor or customize future listings (or reports) ofassets to that user. For example, system 100 can communicate with, oroperate as part of, the online market system, so that when additionalassets are available for auction or transaction, one or more assets canbe selected based on the user's profile. The selected assets can haveone or more similar characteristics that are of interest to the user. Inthis manner, listings can be provided to the user in the future thatincludes information about assets available for transaction that theuser may have an interest in.

Methodology

FIG. 2 illustrates an example method for providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction. A method such as described by anembodiment of FIG. 2 can be implemented using, for example, componentsdescribed with an embodiment of FIG. 1. Accordingly, references made toelements of FIG. 1 are for purposes of illustrating a suitable elementor component for performing a step or sub-step being described.

A system, such as an auction management system, can communicate with oneor more asset listing sources to generate a list that identifies aplurality of assets and a status of each asset in advance of a scheduledauction (210). The scheduled auction can be a live auction having astart time on a start date. In some examples, the assets can bedistressed assets or be in flux, so that one or more of the assets maynot be available for auction at the scheduled auction. The asset listcan include entries for each asset and can include a variety ofinformation, such as status information.

The system can periodically communicate with one or more asset listingsources to determine a change in the status of one or more assets (220).The frequency in which the system can periodically communicate withasset listing sources can vary depending on the current time and thescheduled auction date and time. For example, the intervals of time forperiodic communication with the asset listing sources can decrease(e.g., from first intervals of time 222 to second intervals of time 224)as the scheduled auction date nears, so that users can be notified morefrequently of updated statuses of assets.

In one example, the system can communicate with asset listing sources atfirst time intervals (e.g., every twenty four hours) until the startdate of the scheduled auction, and then communicate with asset listingsources at second time intervals (e.g., every hour) until a set timebefore the start time of the scheduled auction (e.g., until two hoursbefore). The system can communicate with asset listing sources at thirdtime intervals (e.g., every fifteen minutes) from the set time until theauction completes (e.g., other intervals of time 226).

Based on the change in one or more statuses (or other information) ofassets in the asset list, the list can be updated accordingly (230). Insome examples, the status of an asset can correspond to at least one of:(i) cleared for auction, (ii) pending, (iii) postponed, or (iv)canceled. A report can be generated using information from the assetlist (and/or updated asset list) and can be communicated to one or moreusers or subscribers (240). Depending on implementation, the report caninclude information about particular assets in a given geographic areaand/or of assets that are made to be available at a specified scheduledauction. As such, different reports can be generated, and differentusers/subscribers can receive different reports based on the user'spreferences, the user's profile, the user's subscriptions, and/or theuser's location.

FIG. 3 illustrates another example method providing information about aplurality of assets for a live auction. A method such as described by anembodiment of FIG. 3 can be implemented using, for example, componentsdescribed with an embodiment of FIG. 1. Accordingly, references made toelements of FIG. 1 are for purposes of illustrating a suitable elementor component for performing a step or sub-step being described.

In some examples, information about assets for an auction can bedisplayed during the auction in order to provide real-time or close toreal-time updates about auction states of assets. A plurality of assetscan be identified that are made to be available during a scheduledauction (310). In some examples, the assets can correspond to adistressed item or real property, and the scheduled auction can be alive auction that is held at an approved venue. Information the assetscan include the auction states for the assets as well as a referencenumber for an identified asset. In one example, an aggregator 120 (orone or more other components of system 100) can maintain a mapping orreference table of reference numbers and associated asset identifiersfor each asset that is made to be available during the scheduledauction.

Before the start of the auction (e.g., a few hours before, immediatelybefore) or during the auction, a matrix display 140 can display a matrixinterface (or table or checker board) having a plurality of entries orcells (320). Each of the entries can identify a corresponding asset andthe auction state of that asset (322). The auction state can correspondto at least one of: (i) cleared for auction, (ii) pending, (iii)auctioned, (iv) postponed, or (v) canceled. In one implementation, theentry can identify the corresponding asset by displaying, with theentry, a reference number that corresponds to the asset or the assetidentifier (324). In addition, auction states for entries can bevisually distinguished on the matrix interface using visual cues, suchas different colors, textures, shading, etc. (326).

During the course of the auction, the auction state of one or moreassets can be dynamically updated. In one example, during the auction,the system can continue to communicate with one or more asset listingsources to determine information about the assets that are made to beavailable during that auction (330). When the determined informationindicates a different auction state for a respective asset (e.g., theauction state has changed since a previous communication with the one ormore asset listing sources), the aggregator 120 can update the assetlist and provide updated auction state information for that asset to thematrix display 140 (340). The matrix display 140 can dynamically updatethe respective entries of the displayed matrix interface to reflect themost recent auction state for the assets. The updated auction state(s)can be shown in the matrix interface (e.g., using colors or otherdistinguishing features) so that a user can quickly understand theauction states of the assets.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example method for providing information of assetsfor transaction to a user based on a profile of the user. A method suchas described by an embodiment of FIG. 4 can be implemented using, forexample, components described with an embodiment of FIG. 1. Accordingly,references made to elements of FIG. 1 are for purposes of illustrating asuitable element or component for performing a step or sub-step beingdescribed.

As described in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example, system 100 can generate andprovide a report that includes information about assets that are made tobe available during a scheduled auction. The reports can be provided tousers or subscribers, in advance of the auction, and can include aplurality of entries that each corresponds to an asset. Each of theentries can also include a link (e.g., as part of the entry) for thecorresponding asset that the user can select to view additionalinformation about that asset. For example, the report can be provided toa user's computing device, e.g., via as part of a web page or an e-mailmessage to the user, so that the report can be viewed by the user andlinks may be selected by the user (410).

The system can determine whether the user selected any one or more ofthe links provided in the report (420). If the user did not select anylinks, e.g., the system determines that no user selection of links weremade by the user operating the user's computing device, the system doesnot perform any additional tasks with respect to the links. On the otherhand, if the user selects one or more links from the report, additionalinformation of assets corresponding to the one or more selected linksare provided to the user. A link profiler 160, for example, can alsodetermine the user ID of the user who provided the user selection of oneor more links. In addition, in response to receiving user selection ofone or more links from the report, the link profiler 160 determines oneor more assets corresponding to the one or more selected links (430).

Depending on implementation, the link profiler 160 can determine oridentify one or more assets the user was interested in from the one ormore selected links. A link itself can be an active link that includesinformation about the asset, such as the associated identifier of theasset. The link profiler 160 can also look up one or more assets fromthe asset list using the selected link(s) to determine the assetscorresponding to the selections. The link profiler 160 can alsodetermine one or more characteristics of the determined asset(s) usinginformation stored in the asset information data store 172.

The profile of the user can be determined and updated with informationassociated with the determined one or more assets (440). For example,the user's profile can be maintained in a subscriber information datastore 174, so that the system and/or an online market system can accessthe user's profile in order to tailor or customize future listings ofassets to that user. Based on the user's profile, the system can provideadditional listings about one or more other assets available fortransaction to the user (450).

Examples

FIG. 5 illustrates an example report that includes information about aplurality of assets and their corresponding statuses. A report 500 asdescribed in FIG. 5 can be an example of a report as discussed withrespect to FIGS. 1 through 4. In one example, the assets described inthe report 500 can correspond to real estate property. A report 500 canbe provided to users or subscribers in advance of a scheduled auction.

According to an example, the report 500 includes a plurality of entries510 that each corresponds to an asset. For each asset, the entry 510 caninclude a plurality of information, such as an ID number, the address,the city, the asset type (e.g., single family residence (SFR),condominium, etc.), FCL, APN, square footage or size, number of bedroomsand bathrooms, lot size, year the asset was built, estimated debt left,the open bid amount, etc. In addition, the report 500 can include otherinformation 540, such as the date the report was generated or provided(e.g., Mar. 6, 2013), what geographic region the report is specified for(e.g., Riverside County, California), and the address for the venue forthe scheduled auction. In a geographically specified report, assets thatare located in the given geographic region are provided as entries 510in the report.

The report 500 can be provided days in advance of the scheduled auctiondate, or can be provided on the day of the scheduled auction date (e.g.,as identified by the heading “Auction Day Clearance Report”). The report500 can provide information about changes to statuses of assets inperiodic intervals. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the report can includetime stamps 520 in which the statuses of one or more assets changed. Inthis example, the statuses of one or more assets have changed from aprevious status to a status indicating “cleared for sale.” The report500 has been updated (and/or generated) at 8:45 am, at 9:00 am, and at9:15 am (Note that the report 500 may have also been updated at 8:30 am,at 8:15 am, and so forth, but is not illustrated in FIG. 5 forsimplicity purposes).

In some examples, as described with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4, eachof the entries 510 provided in the report 500 can include an active link530. Depending on implementation, different parts of an entry 510 can belinked to be an active link 530. In the report 500, each of the IDnumbers of an entry 510 has been designated to be a link 530, so that auser can select the link in order to view additional material about thatasset. When the link 530 is selected for the asset in “Moreno Valley,”system 100 can update the user's profile with information associatedwith this asset and one or more characteristics of the asset.

In addition, the report 500 can also include a selectable auction tallytable 550 or graphic. The auction tally table 550 can indicate aplurality of statuses for the assets that are made to be available forthe scheduled auction corresponding to the report 50. The auction tallytable 550 can keep track of the number of assets each having aparticular current status (e.g., “cleared for sale,” “pendingclearance,” “postponed,” or “canceled”). The user can select each of thestatuses in the auction tally table 550 to view entries 510 of assetshaving that particular selected status.

In this manner, a user who is interested in purchasing assets for anauction can subscribe to a report, such as report 500, in order to viewup-to-date information about the assets in advance of the auction.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example matrix interface that identifies aplurality of assets and their corresponding auction states. A matrixinterface 600 as described in FIG. 6 can be an example of a matrixinterface as discussed with respect to FIGS. 1 through 4.

In one example, the matrix interface 600 can be a matrix, or rectangularcheckerboard or table, which includes a plurality of entries 610 orcells. In alternative examples, the matrix interface 600 can havedifferent shapes and different sized cells. The matrix interface 600 canbe displayed at a live auction venue, for example, or on one or moreuser computing devices. The matrix interface 600 can also be displayedon the day of the auction, such as just before the auction begins andduring the course of the auction. Each entry 610 can identify acorresponding asset and the auction state of that asset. In addition,the displayed matrix interface 600 can dynamically change the contentsof the entry 610 as status updates for the assets are determined by thesystem.

Depending on implementation, an entry 610 can include an auction stateidentifier 620 and a reference number 630. The auction state identifier620 represents the current auction state for the asset represented bythat entry 610. In addition, the reference number 630 can correspond tothe asset. Bidders can be provided a reference sheet or mapping table ofwhat asset each reference number is associated with. In this manner, abidder can simply focus on a handful of numbers for assets that thebidder is interest in, and determine from the respective entries 610 thecurrent auction state of the assets.

The entries 610 can also have different colors 640, textures, shading,etc., to represent the auction state of the respective asset. Forexample, the auction state “clear to auction” can correspond to thecolor green, which can typically represent “go” or “proceed,” while theauction state “pending” can correspond to the color yellow. The auctionstate “canceled” can correspond to the color red, while the auctionstate “postponed” can be a neutral color such as gray or brown. As anaddition or an alternative, the entries 610 can include a graphic oricon 650 that also represents a particular auction state (e.g., such as“clear to auction”). Another example of a graphic can include a circlewith a slash through it to represent the auction state “canceled.” Asauction states change and are updated, the colors 640 and the auctionstate identifier 620 for a respective entry 610 can be dynamicallyupdated. In this manner, a bidder that is observing the matrix interfacecan easily see the change in colors and understand the changes instatuses of assets.

Hardware Diagram

FIG. 7 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system upon whichexamples described herein may be implemented. For example, in thecontext of FIG. 1, system 100 may be implemented using a computer systemsuch as described by FIG. 7. System 100 may also be implemented using acombination of multiple computer systems as described by FIG. 7.

In one implementation, computer system 700 includes processing resources710, main memory 720, ROM 730, storage device 740, and communicationinterface 750. Computer system 700 includes at least one processor 710for processing information. Computer system 700 also includes a mainmemory 720, such as a random access memory (RAM) or other dynamicstorage device, for storing information and instructions to be executedby the processor 710. Main memory 720 also may be used for storingtemporary variables or other intermediate information during executionof instructions to be executed by processor 710. Computer system 700 mayalso include a read only memory (ROM) 730 or other static storage devicefor storing static information and instructions for processor 710. Astorage device 740, such as a magnetic disk or optical disk, is providedfor storing information and instructions.

The communication interface 750 can enable the computer system 700 tocommunicate with one or more networks 780 (e.g., cellular network)through use of the network link (wireless or wireline). Using thenetwork link, the computer system 700 can communicate with one or morecomputing devices and/or one or more servers. For example, the computersystem 700 can (i) receive asset information 756 from one or more assetlisting sources, (ii) provide reports 754 to one or more users orsubscribers, and/or (iii) provide a matrix interface 752 for displayduring an auction via the network link. The received asset information756 can also be processed by the processor 710 and can be stored in, forexample, the storage device 740.

Computer system 700 can also include a display device 760, such as acathode ray tube (CRT), an LCD monitor, or a television set, forexample, for displaying graphics and information to a user. In someexamples, computer system 700 can display the matrix interface 752 onthe display device 760 (e.g., the display device 760 can be provided ata location of the auction). An input mechanism 770, such as a keyboardthat includes alphanumeric keys and other keys, can be coupled tocomputer system 700 for communicating information and command selectionsto processor 710. Other non-limiting, illustrative examples of inputmechanisms 770 include a mouse, a trackball, touch-sensitive screen, orcursor direction keys for communicating direction information andcommand selections to processor 710 and for controlling cursor movementon display 760.

Examples described herein are related to the use of computer system 700for implementing the techniques described herein. According to oneexample, those techniques are performed by computer system 700 inresponse to processor 710 executing one or more sequences of one or moreinstructions contained in main memory 720. Such instructions may be readinto main memory 720 from another machine-readable medium, such asstorage device 740. Execution of the sequences of instructions containedin main memory 720 causes processor 710 to perform the process stepsdescribed herein. In alternative implementations, hard-wired circuitrymay be used in place of or in combination with software instructions toimplement examples described herein. Thus, the examples described arenot limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry andsoftware.

It is contemplated for examples described herein to extend to individualelements and concepts described herein, independently of other concepts,ideas or system, as well as for examples to include combinations ofelements recited anywhere in this application. Although examples aredescribed in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings,it is to be understood that the examples are not limited to thoseprecise descriptions and illustrations. As such, many modifications andvariations will be apparent to practitioners. Accordingly, it iscontemplated that a particular feature described either individually oras part of an example can be combined with other individually describedfeatures, or parts of other examples, even if the other features andexamples make no mentioned of the particular feature.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method of providinginformation about a live auction event at which a plurality of assetsare scheduled for individual auctions, the method being performed by oneor more processors and comprising: identifying the plurality of assetsthat are indicated for auction at the live auction event, each of theplurality of assets being associated with one of a plurality of auctionstates, each of the plurality of auction states representing anavailability of a corresponding asset of the plurality of assets to beauctioned at the live auction event, the plurality of auction statesincluding at least each of (i) a first state for assets that are toproceed to auction, (ii) a second state for assets which have had theirauction canceled, (iii) a third state for assets which have had theirauction completed, and (iv) a fourth state for assets which have hadtheir auction postponed; communicating with multiple sources from whichindividual assets of the plurality of assets are provided in order torepeatedly receive, during the live auction event, informationindicating a current auction state of each asset of the plurality ofassets; and during the live auction event, generating a matrix interfacethat displays the current auction state of each asset of the pluralityof assets in real-time using information received from the multiplesources; wherein generating the matrix interface includes: (i)generating the matrix interface to include a plurality of cells in whicheach of the plurality of cells provides an indicator of a correspondingasset and a corresponding current auction state of that asset, whereinthe indicator of the current auction state for each of the plurality ofassets is provided by a visually distinguishable, non-textualcharacteristic of the corresponding cell that maps to one of theplurality of auction states; (ii) dynamically updating the matrixinterface by changing the indicators of current auction states of theplurality of assets to reflect changes in the current auction states ofthose assets; and (iii) providing the updated matrix interfacesimultaneously in multiple computing environments for a plurality ofusers, including to (a) a display device provided at the live auctionevent to be viewable by bidders, and (b) one or more subscribers who areremote to the live auction event, via an online medium, the updatedmatrix interface being formatted for each subscriber based on profileinformation of the subscriber which indicates how the matrix interfaceis to be displayed by a device of that subscriber.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, further comprising: associating each of the plurality of assetswith an asset identifier in a mapping table for the live auction event,wherein each asset identifier is associated with a reference number, andwherein generating the matrix interface includes providing, for each ofthe plurality of cells, the reference number of the corresponding asset.3. The method of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of assetscorresponds to an item of real property.
 4. The method of claim 1,wherein dynamically updating the auction state of one or more of theplurality of assets includes adjusting a color of one or more cells. 5.The method of claim 1, wherein the indicator for each of the auctionstates corresponds to a color.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein theindicator of each cell of the matrix interface visually distinguishesthe auction state of a corresponding asset from all of the other auctionstates which are also represented on the matrix interface.
 7. A systemcomprising: one or more network interfaces; one or more memory resourcesstoring instructions; and one or more processors, coupled to the one ormore network interfaces and the one or more memory resources, to executethe instructions, the instructions causing the system to performoperations comprising: identify a plurality of assets that are indicatedfor auction at a live auction event, each of the plurality of assetsbeing associated with one of a plurality of auction states, each of theplurality of auction states representing an availability of acorresponding asset of the plurality of assets to be auctioned at thelive auction event, the plurality of auction states including at leasteach of (i) a first state for assets that are to proceed to auction,(ii) a second state for assets which have had their auction canceled,(iii) a third state for assets which have had their auction completed,and (iv) a fourth state for assets which have had their auctionpostponed; communicate with multiple sources from which individualassets of the plurality of assets are provided in order to repeatedlyreceive, during the live auction event, information indicating a currentauction state of each asset of the plurality of assets; and during thelive auction event, generate a matrix interface that displays thecurrent auction state of each asset of the plurality of assets inreal-time using information received from the multiple sources; whereinthe one or more processors generate the matrix interface by: (i)including a plurality of cells in which each of the plurality of cellsprovides an indicator of a corresponding asset and a correspondingcurrent auction state of that asset, wherein the indicator of thecurrent auction state for each of the plurality of assets is provided bya visually distinguishable, non-textual characteristic of thecorresponding cell that maps to one of the plurality of auction states;(ii) dynamically updating the matrix interface by changing indicators ofcurrent auction states of the plurality of assets to reflect changes inthe current auction states of those assets; and (iii) providing theupdated matrix interface simultaneously in multiple computingenvironments for a plurality users, including to (a) a display deviceprovided at the live auction event to be viewable by bidders, and (b) toone or more subscribers who are remote to the live auction event, via anonline medium, the updated matrix interface being formatted for eachsubscriber based on profile information of the subscriber whichindicates how the matrix interface is to be displayed by a device ofthat subscriber.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein the instructionscause the system to further perform operations comprising: associatingeach of the plurality of assets with an asset identifier in a mappingtable for the live auction event, wherein each asset identifier isassociated with a reference number, and wherein generating the matrixinterface includes providing, for each of the plurality of cells, thereference number of the corresponding asset.
 9. The system of claim 7,wherein each asset of the plurality of assets corresponds to an item ofreal property.
 10. The system of claim 7, wherein the instructions causethe system to dynamically update the auction state of one or more of theplurality of assets by adjusting a color of one or more cells.
 11. Thesystem of claim 10, wherein the indicator for each of the auction statescorresponds to a color.
 12. The system of claim 7, wherein the indicatorof each cell of the matrix interface visually distinguishes the auctionstate of a corresponding asset from all of the other auction stateswhich are also represented on the matrix interface.
 13. A non-transitorycomputer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by oneor more processors of a server, cause the server to perform operationscomprising: identifying a plurality of assets that are indicated forauction at a live auction event, each of the plurality of assets beingassociated with one of a plurality of auction states, each of theplurality of auction states representing an availability of acorresponding asset of the plurality of assets to be auctioned at thelive auction event, the plurality of auction states including at leasteach of (i) a first state for assets that are to proceed to auction,(ii) a second state for assets which have had their auction canceled,(iii) a third state for assets which have had their auction completed,and (iv) a fourth state for assets which have had their auctionpostponed; communicating with multiple sources from which individualassets of the plurality of assets are provided in order to repeatedlyreceive, during the live auction event, information indicating a currentauction state of each asset of the plurality of assets; and during thelive auction event, generating a matrix interface that displays thecurrent auction state of each asset of the plurality of assets inreal-time using information received from the multiple sources; whereingenerating the matrix interface includes: (i) generating the matrixinterface to include a plurality of cells in which each of the pluralityof cells provides an indicator of a corresponding asset and acorresponding current auction state of that asset, wherein the indicatorof the current auction state for each of the plurality of assets isprovided by a visually distinguishable, non-textual characteristic ofthe corresponding cell that maps to one of the plurality of auctionstates; (ii) dynamically updating the matrix interface by changing theindicators of current auction states of the plurality of assets toreflect changes in the current auction states of those assets; and (iii)providing the updated matrix interface simultaneously in multiplecomputing environments for plurality of users, including to (a) adisplay device provided at the live auction event to be viewable bybidders, and (b) to one or more subscribers who are remote to the liveauction event, via an online medium, the updated matrix interface beingformatted for each subscriber based on profile information of thesubscriber which indicates how the matrix interface is to be displayedby a device of that subscriber.
 14. The non-transitory computer-readablemedium of claim 13, wherein the instructions cause the server to furtherperform operations comprising: associating each of the plurality ofassets with an asset identifier in a mapping table for the live auctionevent, wherein each asset identifier is associated with a referencenumber, and wherein generating the matrix interface includes providing,for each of the plurality of cells, the reference number of thecorresponding asset.
 15. The non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 13, wherein each of the plurality of assets corresponds to an itemof real property.
 16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium ofclaim 13, wherein the instructions cause the server to dynamicallyupdate the auction state of one or more of the plurality of assets byadjusting a color of one or more cells.
 17. The non-transitorycomputer-readable medium of claim 13, wherein the indicator of each cellof the matrix interface visually distinguishes the auction state of acorresponding asset from all of the other auction states which are alsorepresented on the matrix interface.